Jean Ojiro, a Kenyan model, media personality, and digital content creator, has been crowned Miss Universe Kenya 2026.
The crowning of Jean as Miss Universe Kenya 2026 followed a grand finale competition held on July 25 at Emara Ole-Sereni Hotel in Nairobi.
As the holder of the title, Jean is set to represent Kenya at the 75th Miss Universe pageant, scheduled to take place later this year in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Jean, who is also known as Jyn Ojiro or Gloria Jean Ojiro, emerged victorious after competing against a field of finalists drawn from across the country.
“From 500 ladies, down to 30, down to 15 and now down to the top two. Congratulations to the new Miss Universe Kenya 2026, Jean Ojiro. We have seen your journey, and now you are our queen.” Azeezah Hashim the official host MC of the Miss Universe Kenya 2026 Grand Finale announced.
Fourth runners-up position was awarded to Mokeira Onchiri; Esther Caren Ochieng came in third, while Myra Mburu took the first runners-up position.
Content creator Liz Jackson issued a congratulatory message to Mokeira Onchiri on her social media platform on July 26 despite the crown going to Jean.
According to Liz Jackson, Mokeira has shown determination throughout the pageant competition, citing that the crown does not define winning.
“You did so well, my queen. I have seen the hard work, the sacrifices, and the effort you put into this journey. I watched you show up every single day and give it everything you had. Keep your head high. Your crown will always fit you,” Liz Jackson stated.
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Miss Universe Kenya 2026
The 2026 edition of Miss Universe Kenya called for applications from women across the country following its relaunch after failing to participate in 2025.
The selection process involved several stages, including applications, auditions, interviews, and intensive boot camp sessions.
During the application process, 30 applicants expressed interest in competing for the title, with only 15 advancing to the next stage on June 24 after undergoing a boot camp.
The selected 15 contestants further participated in a runway class led by Bobby Kaanjosa to enhance their stage presentation skills.
Prize Package
As the new titleholder, Jean receives a prize package that includes US$10,000, which is approximately KSh 1.29 million in cash.
Further, as the winner, Jean is set to receive a brand-new Nissan Note vehicle, a fully furnished residence during her reign, and a fully sponsored trip to Puerto Rico for the Miss Universe competition.
In addition to the cash prize, the newly crowned Miss Universe Kenya 2026 will receive Professional talent management and career development opportunities.
Jean is also set to enjoy a five-month skincare transformation package valued at KSh 300,000.
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About Jean Ojiro
Jean Ojiro was born in Nairobi and raised in Kisumu, where she completed her education.
After her secondary education, Jean returned to Nairobi to venture into modeling.
Her career gained momentum through commercial campaigns, print advertisements, television commercials, and runway appearances.
Jean has also worked with brands including Safaricom, Coca-Cola, Guinness, Cadbury, Darling, and Zaron Cosmetics.
In addition to modeling, Jean has built an online presence as a content creator and influencer, launching her online content journey through dance videos before expanding into lifestyle, travel, fashion, beauty, and family-related content.
Jean also pursued journalism-related studies at Riara University.
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